Segment:
Luxury Touring Motorcycle
Target Audience:
Touring riders, cruising enthusiasts, owners seeking detailed maintenance and repair information.
Competitors 2009:
Other large-displacement V-twin cruiser/touring motorcycles from brands like Indian, Victory, and potentially some large Japanese cruisers configured for touring.
Comfort Features:
Classic styling, comfortable riding position, large windscreen, spacious saddlebags, passenger backrest (often standard or optional).
Value Proposition:
Provides essential information for maintaining the value and performance of the 2009 Harley-Davidson FLHRC Road King Classic.
Content Advantage:
Authoritative and complete, reflecting Harley-Davidson's engineering standards and recommended procedures.
Engine:
Complete overhaul, troubleshooting, performance tuning, lubrication system, cooling system (if applicable), fuel system (carburetor/EFI), ignition system, exhaust system.
Transmission:
Clutch, primary drive, transmission internals, gear shifting mechanisms, lubrication, troubleshooting.
Drivetrain:
Final drive belt, rear sprocket, wheel bearing maintenance, troubleshooting.
Chassis Frame:
Frame inspection, suspension components (forks, shocks), steering head bearings, swingarm, pivot points.
Wheels Tires:
Wheel removal and installation, spoke tensioning (if applicable), tire mounting and balancing, wheel bearing service, hub maintenance.
Brakes:
Hydraulic brake system (front and rear), caliper service, master cylinder overhaul, brake fluid specifications, bleeding procedures, rotor inspection, ABS system diagnostics (if equipped).
Electrical System:
Battery service, charging system (alternator, regulator), starting system (starter motor, solenoid), lighting system (headlight, taillight, turn signals), ignition system components, instrumentation, horn, wiring diagrams, fault codes.
Fuel System:
Fuel tank removal and installation, fuel pump operation, fuel injectors (EFI models), fuel lines, fuel filter replacement, carburetor adjustment and overhaul (for applicable models).
Body Fittings:
Fairing removal and installation, saddlebag mounting and repair, seat service, fender maintenance, controls (handlebars, levers, pedals), mirrors, windshield.
Diagnostics Troubleshooting:
Systematic diagnostic procedures, common problems and their solutions, symptom-based troubleshooting guides, diagnostic trouble codes (DTCs).
Routine Maintenance:
Oil changes, filter replacements, spark plug replacement, air filter service, brake fluid flush, drive belt inspection and adjustment, tire pressure checks, lubrication points.
Major Repairs:
Engine rebuilds (top end and bottom end), transmission overhauls, clutch replacement, suspension servicing, brake system overhauls, electrical component replacement.
Diagnostic Procedures:
Use of diagnostic tools, interpretation of sensor data, circuit testing, fuel system pressure tests, ignition timing checks.
Installation Replacement:
Step-by-step instructions for replacing common wear items and larger components.
Depth:
Comprehensive factory-level detail suitable for professional technicians and experienced DIY mechanics.
Detail Level:
Includes torque specifications, clearances, diagnostic flowcharts, and precise adjustment procedures.
Engine Type:
Air-cooled, Twin Cam 96 V-Twin
Displacement:
96 cubic inches (1584cc)
Bore X Stroke:
3.75 in. x 4.38 in. (95.25 mm x 111.25 mm)
Valve Train:
Overhead valves (OHV), pushrod actuated, two valves per cylinder
Horsepower Estimated:
Approximately 70-75 HP (at crankshaft, specific dyno figures vary)
Torque Peak:
Approximately 92-96 ft-lbs @ 3000-3500 RPM (specific dyno figures vary)
Fuel Delivery:
Electronic Sequential Port Fuel Injection (ESPFI)
Fuel Type:
Premium Unleaded Gasoline (91 octane or higher recommended)
Fuel Tank Capacity:
5.0 US gallons (18.9 L)
Oil Capacity:
3.5 US quarts (3.3 L) with filter change
Oil Type Specification:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil SAE 20W-50 or equivalent API SG or higher
Audio System:
Many FLHRC models featured a premium audio system with AM/FM radio, CD player, and CB/intercom functionality (depending on specific trim/options).
Display:
Analog gauges for speedometer, tachometer, fuel level, oil pressure, and voltage; often with a digital odometer and trip meter.
ABS:
Optional Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) was available for enhanced safety and braking control.
Cruise Control:
Electronic cruise control typically standard on Road King models for highway comfort.
Security:
Harley-Davidson Smart Security System with hands-free fob often included.
First Service:
Typically at 1,000 miles (1,600 km) for oil change, primary chain adjustment, and general inspection.
Subsequent Oil Changes:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) or annually, whichever comes first.
Drive Belt Inspection:
Every 5,000 miles (8,000 km) for tension and condition.
Brake Fluid Flush:
Every 2 years or as recommended based on fluid condition.
Spark Plugs:
Inspection every 10,000 miles (16,000 km), replacement as needed.
Air Filter Service:
Inspection every 5,000 miles (8,000 km), cleaning or replacement as needed based on conditions.
Engine Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Genuine V-Twin Oil SAE 20W-50 (or equivalent API SG or higher)
Primary Chain Case Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50 transmission oil)
Transmission Oil Spec:
Harley-Davidson Genuine Formula+ Transmission and Primary Chaincase Lubricant (or equivalent SAE 50 transmission oil)
Brake Fluid Spec:
DOT 4 Hydraulic Brake Fluid
Common Wear Items:
Drive belt wear, wheel bearings, brake pads, steering head bearings, clutch cable (if cable operated, though FLHRC is hydraulic).
Potential Electrical Issues:
Battery charging system (regulator/stator) issues, wiring harness connections, especially in humid environments.
Engine Maintenance Points:
Regular oil changes with correct viscosity, proper air filter maintenance, and timely spark plug replacement are crucial for Twin Cam longevity.
Brand Origins:
Founded in 1903 in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, Harley-Davidson is an iconic American motorcycle manufacturer renowned for its V-twin engines and distinctive styling.
Road King Lineage:
The Road King line has been a staple of Harley-Davidson's touring lineup, emphasizing classic styling and rider comfort. The 'Classic' designation typically signifies a higher level of traditional styling, often with whitewall tires, chrome accents, and leather-look saddlebags.
Twin Cam Era:
The Twin Cam engine platform, introduced in 1999, replaced the Evolution engine and featured a dual-camshaft design for improved performance and torque delivery, characterizing Harley-Davidson's offerings through the 2000s and early 2010s.
Production Period:
The 2009 model year represents a specific iteration within the long-standing FLH platform and Twin Cam engine era.